Dry Eye Treatments Explained

Dry eye disease occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears, or when the tears produced evaporate too quickly, leaving the eye surface inadequately lubricated. It is one of the most common conditions seen by eye care professionals, and it exists on a wide spectrum from occasional mild discomfort to chronic, vision-affecting disease.

At Upper West Optical, we take a thorough, individualized approach to dry eye care, identifying the underlying cause before recommending treatment, because what works for one patient may not work for another.

First-Line Treatments

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Artificial Tears

Preservative-free artificial tear drops supplement natural tear production and provide immediate relief. They are the first treatment tried for mild dry eye and form the foundation of most dry eye management plans.

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Warm Compresses

Applying a warm compress to closed eyelids for several minutes softens the oils in the meibomian glands, improving oil secretion and reducing the evaporative dry eye that affects the majority of patients.

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Lid Hygiene

Regular cleaning of the eyelid margins with gentle cleansers removes bacterial buildup and debris that can block meibomian glands and contribute to chronic dry eye and inflammation.

Prescription and Clinical Treatments

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Prescription Eye Drops

Anti-inflammatory prescription drops such as cyclosporine or lifitegrast address the underlying inflammation that drives chronic dry eye disease rather than simply masking the symptoms temporarily.

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Meibomian Gland Expression

In-office manual or device-assisted expression of blocked meibomian glands removes the inspissated oils that prevent normal tear film lipid secretion, often providing lasting relief.

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Punctal Plugs

Tiny silicone plugs inserted into the tear drainage openings slow the drainage of natural tears from the eye surface, effectively increasing tear volume for patients with insufficient tear production.

      Lifestyle Changes That Support Dry Eye Treatment
      Drink adequate water throughout the day to support healthy tear production
Use a humidifier in dry indoor environments, especially during winter heating season
Take regular screen breaks and consciously blink more often during near tasks
Increase omega-3 fatty acid intake through diet or supplements
Wear wraparound eyewear outdoors to protect the eye surface from wind and drying
Avoid air vents blowing directly at your face in cars and offices
Reduce or eliminate contact lens wear on days when symptoms are particularly severe

    

Advanced Treatment Options

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Intense Pulsed Light

IPL therapy uses light energy applied to the skin around the eyes to reduce inflammation and improve meibomian gland function, offering lasting improvement for evaporative dry eye sufferers.

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Autologous Serum Drops

Made from a patient's own blood serum, these custom drops contain growth factors and anti-inflammatory proteins that closely mimic natural tears, used for severe cases unresponsive to standard treatments.

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Scleral Lenses

For patients with severe dry eye, scleral lenses create a fluid-filled chamber over the cornea that provides continuous moisture throughout the day, dramatically improving comfort and vision quality.

Finding the Right Treatment for You

Dry eye treatment is not one-size-fits-all. The best approach depends on whether your dry eye is primarily caused by insufficient tear production or by excessive tear evaporation, and what other factors are contributing to your specific symptoms.

At Upper West Optical, we conduct thorough dry eye evaluations to identify the root cause of your symptoms and build a treatment plan that addresses it directly. Whether your dry eye is mild or severe, we have the tools and expertise to help you find lasting relief.